Richard Rice, Sr.

Richard Edward Rice, Sr., son of Wilford P. and Rosa W. Rice, was born October 19, 1936, in Winston-Salem, NC.  Richard departed his earthly life on Monday, January 23, 2023, after an extended period of illness. Richard attended the local public schools and was a 1955 graduate of Atkins High School.  He enlisted into the US Air Force where he was honorably discharged and later decided to enlist in the Army Reserve where he remained for a period of 31 years.  Richard became a member and faithfully served as chaplain of the VFW, Clemmons, NC.  He was employed at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and retired after 30 years of service. Richard joined the Shiloh Baptist Church at an early age and was active with the Deacon’s Ministry where he served as chairman until declining health, Sunday School, Men’s Ministry, Male  Chorus and Sheepfold Ministry.  In the community, he served several years with the Meal On Wheels Ministry, Boy Scout leader, and was a member of the Beauty Of The West Eastern Star and  Ionic Lodge #72 Prince Hall Masons. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Richard E. Rice, Jr.; brother, Donald W. Rice, Sr.; and niece, Crystal P. Murray. He leaves the following to celebrate his wonderful life, his wife, Alicia Rice; sons, Reginald Rice, Nakkio Smith, Nakouye Smith, Billy Booker; daughters, Gloria Swindale, Linda Booker; one granddaughter, Tenisha Rice; godson, David Dsuarez Barriga; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends. Richard will lie-in-state on Monday January 30, 2023, from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at 12:00 PM at Shiloh Baptist Church, with Rev. Dr. Paul A. Lowe officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. An inurnment will be held on Thursday, February 2, 2023, at 9:00 AM at Salisbury National Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com